Updated on June 22nd, 2023 at 12:46 pm
When loading up your golf bag, you think of the essential items you need, like golf clubs, golf shoes, golf balls, and tees. But one of the most important is often missed; sunscreen. Continue reading to find the best sunscreen for golfers and why you need it!
Why do golfers need sunscreen?
As a golfer, you spend most of your round under the sun, with little cover. You may be able to grab a minute or two of shade under a tree, but overall, you’re exposed to the sun. While vitamin D may be great for your body, too much exposure to the sun without protection can cause long-term problems to your skin.
Best sunscreen for golfers
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad
This product is great for those prone to acne or with exceptionally sensitive skin. It is also mineral based and has zinc oxide, which is great for keeping your skin moisturized, hydrated, and healthy in the long run.
The product has many dermatological recommendations because of these factors and how effectively it protects against UV rays and sun damage. It can protect against the immediate dangers of UV rays and long-term damage like early skin aging and decreases the risk of skin cancer.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends EltaMD because of its reliability, so even though it isn’t as big of a name as some other brands, it is a product you can trust.
There are two main downsides to this product. First, it isn’t water resistant, so it isn’t ideal for golfing in the rain. It also is difficult to find in stores, so it must be ordered online.
Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Banana Boat is one of the most reliable and widely known companies when it comes to sunblock and skin protection products. The brand name is definitely a huge perk when it comes to this particular kind of sunscreen because you know that you are getting a quality product and exactly what you purchase. The product itself, as well, has an endorsement from the Skin Cancer Foundation and has been tested in ample critical trials.
It is great because it is far less greasy than most sunscreen options and having greasy sunscreen can be really annoying at the beach when you just want to get the sunscreen on and go. It also is incredibly lightweight and breathable, so you won’t have to worry about white stains on your body or having trouble rubbing it in. The sunscreen spray is made to be friendly for kids as well, as it won’t run into their eyes and is very enduring against sweat and water alike.
EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 45
Mineral-based, moisturizing, great for light completions, and extremely lightweight on my face. It is mineral-based and has an 80-minute water resistance. It can be applied to wet or dry skin and blends in quickly with no white residue. Elta has been in business for over 25 years and has produced excellent sunscreen for golfers.
The biggest factor that stood out for me with the Elta MD was how light it felt on my face. Since it’s a gentle and lightweight sunscreen, you can share this sunscreen with your wife to be used under her makeup. Approach this purchase as his and hers gift! Perfect for both of you! Even though this is a bit pricier than the others, but worth it, especially if you have a fair complexion. This will be my go-to face lotion when on the golf course.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 45
This sunscreen is considered one of the best options for those with sensitive skin or who burn easily. Aside from being a well-known and reliable brand, it is also one of the highest-recommended brands by dermatologists in terms of skin care. It avoids absorbing UV rays and provides superior sun protection.
In terms of application, it is great because it is made to absorb exceptionally fast, courtesy of its Dry-Touch technology. This prevents streaks and can help you apply it quicker. Another benefit is its oxy-benzene formula which helps prevent sunburn when used correctly and reduces the risk of developing skin cancer.
Even better, it’s available in a stick and spray form and is water-resistant for 80 minutes. So even when it starts raining, you’re good to go. This specific option comes in a twin pack providing 25% more value at an affordable price.
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
This sunscreen for golfers is one of the most powerful when protecting against photo-aging and sun-induced skin damage. It can protect from a spectrum of UV rays and is incredibly holistic in its protection. It is also non-greasy, making it easy to apply and blend into the skin, and you can add this mid-round without worrying about your hands getting too slick to hang onto the golf club.
There are two main downsides to this sunscreen, however. Even though it is exceptionally high-quality regarding protection, it is only water resistant for 40 minutes. This is low compared to other options and can be annoying to reapply when sweating constantly. Additionally, this option is one of the most expensive on the market, primarily because it is mineral based and has a natural ingredient, vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that boosts the skin’s defenses.
Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport
This product has a somewhat middle-of-the-road price but still has many appealing features. It incorporates solar protection treatment that defends against any damage that can be caused by UV light and rays.
It also aims to keep the skin hydrated, which has other benefits and can endorse overall skin health in the long term. This product is vegan and cruelty-free, so it is a product that you can feel good about using as it was made under humane conditions.
One downside of this sunscreen, as opposed to other sunscreens, is that it is only water resistant for 40 minutes, which can be difficult when swimming or playing golf. On the upside, however, it is an exceptionally light formula that doesn’t leave a film, so you don’t have to worry about stickiness or things sticking to you when you’re outside.
Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport Sunscreen doesn’t sweat off and blends into the skin smoothly and easily.
Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer
Jack Black is meant to provide optimal hydration and reduce the oiliness on your skin and face while protecting you from the sun’s harmful rays.
It is a formula meant to be used by all skin types around the clock, but it is also great for those with oily skin. It utilizes only certified organic, gluten-free ingredients, so you know you are getting a product you can trust and accessible to those with gluten allergies.
This product is one of the best products for emerging your skin. It is made with Vitamin C and Mint, preventing early onset aging. It is also great because it is intended for everyday use and to be incorporated into a consistent skincare routine.
It is great for UV protection, facial hydration, and pore cleansing. It has multiple functions within one moisturizer.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid Extreme,
When someone puts this much time into reviewing sunscreen, you can rest assured that I burn very easily. Again, I am fair complected, and I do not have a Tattoo which requires a special type of sunscreen.
I need chemical sunscreen that can keep up with my love of golf and exposure to harsh rays. I loved La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk the first day I used it. I only had time to play nine holes, but it was blistering hot, and I was wiping my face a great deal. I was amazed that it worked perfectly. When I got home, I could see no signs of sun exposure on my fair skin, and it was no different the next day.
This sunscreen milk blends into the face and body and moisturizes without leaving any residue. This La Roche-Posay Anthelios product costs more than many sunscreens, but it is a quality product, and I highly recommend it to anyone who spends a lot of time in the sun.
Coppertone Pure & Simple For Face SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Right off the bat, you should know this is a zinc-oxide-based sunscreen. The FDA allows manufacturers to add 25% zinc oxide in sunscreens, so Coppertone included 24.08% zinc oxide. With such a high concentration, you’d expect it to be thick and heavy. On the contrary, it’s runnier than most sunscreens making it easier to apply.
Unlike most sunscreens, the Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion is specifically labeled for facial use, so you don’t have to wonder if it’ll agree with sensitive skin. With SPF 50, the sunscreen blocks out 98% of UVB rays.
It is also water resistant, so you can enjoy golf in the rain without worrying it’ll wash off.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Moisturizer and sunscreen are a great combination in a lotion. CeraVe designed this facial moisturizer to be a part of morning skincare routines. It features 3 key ceramides that lock in moisture in the skin and help in restoring the protective barrier of sensitive skin.
It contains soothing niacinamide, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and proprietary Multi-Vesicular Emulsion technology, which controls ingredient release into the skin over 24 hours for continuous protection. Although this sun lotion is heavy, the formula’s technology doesn’t clog the pores.
The CeraVe Facial Moisturizer sunscreen properties are impressive. At SPF 30 and with InVisibleZinc technology, the lotion offers sun protection from UVA and UVB rays. It’s also easy to spread and doesn’t leave a white cast. However, you must blend it well into the skin.
After applying the lotion, you’ll notice your skin is refreshed, and any dry spots are gone. For women, makeup also looks great on top of this lotion.
Waxhead Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Stick
The best way to apply Waxhead sunscreen stick is by drawing long strokes on your arms and legs. Allow for a space of about an inch or less between stripes (or you could choose to apply the product using a wide zigzag on other parts of your body). Use your fingers to rub the product crosswise against the stripes, and blend the coating until it is even.
When I was using the Waxhead sunscreen stick, I stayed in the sun for at least eight hours each day, and the only time I had to reapply it was when temperatures broke 100 degrees and it was humid.
I probably could’ve gone all day without reapplying, but to be safe, I decided to reapply after the turn. I did not burn at all! I did, however, notice a nice, even tan.
The product goes on thick, but if you spread it evenly, you will be fine. I wanted to get sunscreen that would work for my entire family, and this one was easy to use. However, I was also avoiding breathing in the spray sunscreen products.
Mineral sunscreen is what I was looking for, and Waxhead fits the bill. Zinc Oxide has been in use for many years without problems, although some recent formulations that use non-nano Zinc Oxide have resulted in skin sensitivity or allergies.
As a water-resistant sunscreen, It’s nice that it doesn’t leave a strange film on the skin as chemical sunscreens do. It only took soap and water to remove it, whereas a lot more scrubbing is required to remove the chemical sunscreens.
Waxhead may seem expensive, but it is a good purchase since you can easily see where you have applied it. I look forward to trying other products made by the Waxhead company.
Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen
The Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen with SPF 70+ is an excellent companion on the course. Its water-resistant and sweat-resistant formula ensures it stays put throughout the game, providing reliable protection against UVA and UVB rays.
The electrolyte complex nourishes my skin, keeping it balanced and hydrated during long sun hours. With its non-greasy texture and easy application, this sunscreen is perfect for golfers seeking effective sun protection without any fuss. Highly recommended for an enjoyable and sunburn-free golf experience!
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen
The name of this sunscreen conjures thoughts of a relaxing and fun tropical island that elevates the experience. To match these thoughts is a mild tropical fragrance that differentiates it from regular sunscreen.
That said, sunscreen has four main ingredients, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene which protect from UVA1 and UVB rays. You’ll need a zinc oxide-based sunscreen to protect your skin against UVA2 rays.
Aside from protecting your skin, the sunscreen lotion nourishes the skin with Vitamins E and C. The shea butter and aloe vera will also help improve your skin over time. Available in SPF 15, 30, 50, and 70, it caters to various protection needs. Highly recommended for golfers seeking a luxurious, skin-loving sunscreen with a delightful scent.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
The name of this sunscreen conjures thoughts of a relaxing and fun tropical island that elevates the experience. To match these thoughts is a mild tropical fragrance that differentiates it from regular sunscreen.
That said, sunscreen has four main ingredients, including avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene which protect from UVA1 and UVB rays. You’ll need a zinc oxide-based sunscreen to protect your skin against UVA2 rays.
Aside from protecting your skin, the sunscreen lotion nourishes the skin with Vitamins E and C. The shea butter and aloe vera will also help improve your skin over time. Available in SPF 15, 30, 50, and 70, it caters to various protection needs. Highly recommended for golfers seeking a luxurious, skin-loving sunscreen with a delightful scent.
The Best Sunscreen for Golfers Is….
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad
EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad is the best sunscreen for golf. It won’t make your hands greasy and won’t make you look like a ghost.
If you want to avoid looking like a lobster after a few rounds or if you just need to avoid the sunglasses tan line, this is the sunscreen for you. I would spend a extra few bucks every day of the week to know that I am protecting my skin, while not interfering with my golf game.
Many of the above are mineral-based and have performed incredibly well for my intended use – protecting my skin while playing golf. Although the EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad is more expensive than your local pharmacy sunscreens, there is no comparison when it comes to quality and protection. This is a great choice and is also a great golf gift for that golfer in your life.
Additional Sunscreen reviews on AEC Info:
Sun damage
Sun damage begins during childhood with exposure to UV light from the sun. As you age, frequent sun exposure plays havoc on the body’s ability to repair itself, causing damage to the DNA of your skin cells. All those sunburns you had as a kid contribute to years of damage to layers of skin. We grow older; we grow wiser.
In today’s day and age, science has allowed us to see the damage the sun causes. And as an avid golfer, the senior pros at your country club may have a nice tan, but you will see the evident damage that has already been caused by the leathery appearance of their skin and the age spots that now cover their face, neck, and arms.
Skin cancer: The most common form of cancer
Cancer can be caused purely by genetic bad luck, but more commonly, skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. There are more new cases found each year than other cancers.
Three types of skin cancer
Melanoma is the rarest form of skin cancer, yet it is the deadliest. It may only account for a small percentage of cancer cases, but it is the most fatal once it metastasizes to various body areas.
The next, less severe, skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. Its treatment is typically a straightforward approach unless the cancer has spread. It is still dangerous.
The most commonly widespread form of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. It rarely spreads, and if it is a superficial tumor, it can be removed surgically and sometimes even by a topical cream or light therapy. This sounds simple, right? Wrong!
Even though this is the best type of skin cancer, you can get if someone was pointing a gun at your head and you had to choose. However, once you have had frequent bouts of this type of cancer, your odds of developing other cancers, such as colon, prostate, or breast cancer, increase significantly.
How to avoid skin damage with sunscreen
Avoiding the harmful effects of the sun seems like a simple task if your passion is needlepoint! It is unavoidable when you are a professional golfer. Even when playing on one of the best myrtle beach golf courses on a nice sunny day, you can still get burnt.
For some reason, as humans, we think nothing of applying sunscreen lotion and lip balm when we are on vacation in the summer. But do you think about applying sunscreen before leaving your house for fun outdoor activities? My guess is probably not. And if you have applied suntan lotion before, you probably didn’t again since you used the greasy lotions that your wife uses on the kids at the pool. It took you the first four holes to grip your club correctly!
What to look for in sunscreen for golfers
When searching for sun protection, your best bet is broad-spectrum protection. This means that the sunscreen will provide UVA and UVB protection, which contribute to skin damage and aging, raising your risk for skin cancer.
No product on the market can be labeled as broad-spectrum unless tested to meet these standards. So, rest assured, when you purchase a sunscreen that states broad spectrum on the label, you are doubly protected.
According to the American Cancer Society, choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor rating of 30 or more. You want a water-resistant product when participating in outside events such as golf.
Any sunscreen claiming to be waterproof is a lie. Water-resistant, yes. Waterproof, no. Important to remember! As a water-resistant lotion, the manufacturer must tell you how long it will last. Times range from 40 to 80 minutes, maximum. No product will provide over 80 minutes of water resistance.
We have chosen to review some top picks for the best sunscreens for golfers. Don’t hide under an umbrella or let the sunshine keep you off the course! If you are thinking of making a trip soon, check out our review of travel equipment.
We are dedicated to helping you find the top items available online and have recently found a Pushcart we think you will love, a Golf Rangefinder that is accurate as hell and won’t break the bank, along with some outstanding golf instructions to help you play your best. Finally, if you need to drop some strokes quickly around the greens, we suggest looking at our Square strike wedge review.
